West Ham United FC

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Zola lands hat-trick of strikers

02 Feb 2010 - 07:21:31

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Brazilian forward Ilan became the third striker to join West Ham United on transfer deadline day.

Ilan, 29, joined the Hammers on a free transfer after leaving French club St Etienne earlier in the month.

He arrived at Upton Park on the same day that Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola also landed South Africa striker Benni McCarthy from Blackburn Rovers and Middlesbrough's Egypt international Mido.

"I am very happy to have signed and to play here," said Ilan, who has won three international caps for Brazil.

"I spoke to Gianfranco Zola and he is a very nice guy. I spoke a little Italian and a little French to him.

"I am happy to be here and it is a great opportunity for me. West Ham are a big club in England and a very traditional club. I also love the Premier League."

Ilan netted 25 goals in 95 matches for St Etienne before being released earlier this month.